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The  late  Mrs.  H.  Alfarata  Chapman  Thompson, 
Albany,  N.  Y. 


IDEALIA 

A UTOPIA  DREAM 
OR  RESTHAVEN 


Copyrighted,  1923 
J.  Wallace  Thompson 
Albany,  N.  Y. 


COMPOSITION,  PRE66WORK,  AND  BINDINQ 
BY 


J.  B.  LYON  COMPANY,  ALBANY,  N.  V. 


IDEALIA,  A UTOPIA  DREAM 

OR 

RESTHAVEN 

This  interesting  and  beautiful  story, 
within  a few  lines  of  its  finish,  was 
written  by  Miss  H.  Alfarata  Chapman, 
Stenographer  for  many  years  in  charge 
of  the  catalogue  department.  University 
of  the  State  of  New  York,  New  York 
State  Library. 

Miss  Chapman  and  John  W.  Thomp- 
son were  married  by  Rev.  J.  Hill  Johnson, 
Rector  of  St.  Luke’s  Episcopal  Church, 
Catskill,  N.  Y.,  September  10,  1921. 

Miss  Helena  R.  Goines,  a life-long 
friend,  was  the  Maid  of  Honor.  William 
A.  Chapman,  brother  of  the  Bride,  was 
best  man.  The  other  two  friends  present 
were  Mrs.  John  Butler,  Mother  of  the 
Maid  of  Honor  and  Mrs.  Clarissa  Mims. 
Mrs.  H.  Alfarata  Chapman  Thompson 
was  a brilliant  young  woman,  highly  edu- 
[3] 


4 Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

cated,  having  graduated  with  honors 
from  the  Albany  High  School  and  the 
Albany  Business  College,  and  a gifted 
and  graceful  writer.  Her  demise  while 
visiting  her  dearly  beloved  brother  in 
Cambridge,  Mass.,  June  9,  1922,  was  a 
sad  and  dreadful  shock  to  her  many 
friends  all  over  the  country.  Many 
of  the  most  intimate  friends  appealed  to 
me,  her  husband,  to  publish  the  story  of 
the  Utopia  Dream,  which  so  beautifully 
brings  the  portrayal  of  the  characters  of 
those  within  the  Resthaven  with  char- 
acteristic sweetness  and  grace. 

To  the  many  friends  who  may  read 
this  little  book  should  remember  that  it  is 
published  by  request  and  dedicated  to  the 
memory  of  my  devoted  Wife,  one  of  the 
best  types  of  American  Womanhood, 
true  to  her  parents,  friends  and  relatives. 

John  W.  Thompson. 

Harriet  Alfarata  Chapman,  wife  of 
John  W.  Thompson,  died  at  her  brother’s 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 


5 


home,  No.  7 West  Street,  Cambridge, 
Mass.,  June  9,  1922. 

Remains  reached  her  late  residence, 
No.  436  Orange  Street,  June  11th,  where 
the  funeral  took  place  at  2 :30  o’clock, 
June  12th.  Interment  — Rural  Ceme- 
tery, Albany,  N.  Y. 

Noted  educator  lauds  her  as  an  exam- 
ple of  the  universally  high  regard  in 
which  she  was  held.  Melvil  Dewey,  one 
of  the  State’s  leading  educators  and 
President  of  the  Lake  Placid  Club,  sent 
the  following  to  the  bereaved  husband; 

‘Wune  22,  1922. 

J.  W.  Thompson: — 

Albany,  N.  Y. 

Dear  Mr.  Thompson; — 

I have  learned  with  keen  regret  of 
your  great  loss.  Your  wife  was  one  of 
the  best  stenographers,  most  loyal  as- 
sistants, I have  ever  had.  I have  said 
hundreds  of  times  that  Harriet  Chap- 
man was  rarely  equalled.  Pray  accept 


6 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 


my  sincere  sympathy  in  your  loss  and 
this  testimony  which  I am  so  glad  to 
bear  to  a woman  of  unusual  ability  and 
character,  who  always  commanded  my 
utmost  respect  and  confidence. 


Melvil  Dewey.” 


PREFACE 


The  writer  in  sending  out  this  little 
book  asks  that  its  readers  will  try 
to  bear  in  mind  that  while  the 
whole  idea  may  be  more  or  less  ideal,  it 
is  hoped  that  here  and  there  a thought 
may  be  culled  which  will  serve  as  a work- 
ing-basis for  one  or  another  of  its  read- 
ers. Often  in  life  we  realize  that  some- 
thing within  us  is  “ knocking  to  be  let 
out,”  that  it  may  go  forth  and  be  of  use 
unto  the  world.  We  frequently  need  but 
the  direction  pointed  to  find  a path  along 
which  we  can  tread,  scattering  here  and 
there  a kindly  word,  giving  of  ourselves 
whatever  is  best  and  worthy  the  giving, 
in  return  broadening  our  own  lives,  com- 
ing in  touch  with  all  natures  and  feeling 
the  satisfaction  that  results  from  “ hav- 
ing tried  to  do  something.”  Be  the  effort 
ever  so  small,  it  yet  shows  a desire  put 
in  action  and  we  can  hope  that,  given  a 
[7] 


8 Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

multitude  of  these  good  actions,  the  re- 
sult must  surely  be  more  sunshine,  more 
hope,  more  inspiration  to  help  others, 
greater  ability  to  enjoy  all  that  God  has 
put  before  us. 

The  writer  could  carry  out  her  purpose 
only  by  having  a setting  which  is  purely 
ideal,  but  from  the  ideal  can  often  be  de- 
duced something  real  or  practical,  and  of 
that  we  can  use  and  adapt  to  ourselves 
and  individual  circumstances  whatever 
will  fit.  In  this  case,  it  may  be  much  or  it 
may  be  little,  but  let  us  hope  that  it  will 
be  something,  at  least,  whatever  its  meas- 
ure may  be.  Therefore  take  from  these 
pages  that  which  appeals  to  you,  then 
pass  on  the  book  to  the  next  that  whatever 
good  seeds  this  little  work  may  contain 
will  in  time  fall  in  fruitful  soil. 


IDEALIA,  A UTOPIA  DREAM 

OR 

RESTHAVEN 

“ Reflect  that  life,  like  every  other  bless- 
ing, 

Derives  its  value  from  its  use  alone.” 

The  day  was  ideal  for  me,  an  idler 
who  had  left  the  train  at  the  sta- 
tion not  far  from  this  particular 
hamlet,  more  because  it  looked  attractive, 
than  from  actual  intention.  Strolling 
leisurely  along  the  shady  lanes,  it  seemed 
to  me  that  something  more  than  the  usual 
calm  and  restful  peace  of  the  country 
emanated  from  somewhere.  A little  far- 
ther on  I reached  a place  where  all  nature 
seemed  to  be  rejoicing  in  her  own  glory. 
Even  the  fence  about  the  grounds  sur- 
rounding the  very  large  dwelling  within 
its  boundary  looked  attractive  in  its 
quaint  style  and  bedecked  with  the  flow- 
ering vines  which  clung  lovingly  to  it. 
[9] 


10  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

The  grounds  were  large  and  well  kept. 
Immense  trees  spread  their  branches  and 
shade  in  all  directions,  looking  cool  and 
inviting  with  the  comfortable  chairs, 
hammocks,  tables  and  garden  seats  be- 
neath, arranged  with  seeming  careless- 
ness, yet  each  had  apparently  been 
put  in  the  best  place  for  the  general  com- 
fort and  pleasure  of  any  occupant. 
Beautiful  flower  beds,  many  with  foun- 
tains interspersed,  made  one  linger  invol- 
untarily and  either  drink  the  crystal 
water  from  the  numerous  bright  cups 
generously  provided,  or  pass  the  hand 
gently  through  the  water,  enjoying  its  re- 
freshing coolness  and  bright  sparkle  in 
the  sunlight  as  it  dropped  from  the  fin- 
gers. What  looked  like  dining-tables  on 
wheels  seemed  to  be  standing  in  con- 
venient places  but  movable  to  different 
locations,  to  allow  the  pleasure  of  eating 
out  of  doors,  presumably,  as  long  as 
weather  permitted.  Truly,  the  inmates 
of  this  enchanting  spot  must  surely  have 
studied  how  and  where  best  to  enjoy  life. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  II 

Leisurely  walking  around  I wondered 
that  no  one  seemed  visible  about  the  place, 
especially  as  it  was  after  two  o’clock  in 
the  afternoon  of  a summer’s  day.  Reach- 
ing the  house  and  feeling  free  to  view  it 
on  all  sides,  as  no  one  appeared  to  pre- 
vent, I proceeded  to  examine  it  with  the 
idea  of  determining  what  sort  of  people 
lived  here.  On  every  side  there  were 
large  windows,  and  piazzas  with  tables, 
wicker  rockers,  sofas  and  easy  chairs. 
Here,  too,  with  careful  forethought, 
shading  vines  in  not  too  great  profusion 
were  trained  on  the  sunny  side  of  the 
house,  making  inviting  retreats  from 
the  sun,  yet  with  occasional  open  spaces 
for  any  preferring  its  full  bright  rays. 
Though  an  uninvited  guest,  I took 
the  liberty  of  picking  out  a comfortable 
corner,  and  feeling  somewhat  tired  from 
the  long  walk  thought  I would  rest  for 
an  hour  or  two,  having  no  fear  of  being 
molested  in  such  a peaceful  place.  It  was 
then  nearly  three. 


12 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 


Surely  my  intended  short  nap  must 
have  stretched  itself  into  hours,  for  on 
awakening  I saw  people  in  every  direc- 
tion, young,  old  and  middle  aged,  but 
seemingly  more  of  them  old  than  young. 
A glance  at  my  watch  showed  that  it  was 
almost  five  o’clock,  and  since  no  one  had 
troubled  me  on  discovering  my  unlicensed 
possession  of  one  of  the  inviting  nooks, 
I felt  free  to  question  these  new  people. 

A gentleman  of  fine  presence,  accom- 
panying a pleasant  looking  lady,  came  up 
to  me  with  friendly  greeting. 

“ My  good  friends,”  said  I,  “ will  you 
kindly  tell  me  what  place  this  is,  who 
these  people  are  and  what  they  do?” 

With  a cordial  smile  the  lady  an- 
swered, 

“ Certainly.  We  are  one  large  happy 
family.” 

The  gentleman  must  have  seen  a sort 
of  derisive  smile  cross  my  face  (my  in- 
ward thought  was,  one  of  those  new  sects 
that  are  springing  up  with  somewhat 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  13 

mushroom-like  growth  all  over  the  coun- 
try), for  he  hastened  to  add, 

“ But  not  the  kind  of  which  you  are 
thinking.”  Continuing  he  said,  “About 
ten  years  ago,  a lady  somewhat  elderly, 
and  her  husband,  also  no  longer  young, 
were  left  alone  in  the  world  without  chil- 
dren, but  with  plenty  of  money  and  de- 
cided to  create  a model  home.  Permit 
me,”  he  broke  off,  “ to  introduce  myself 
as  Mr.  Andrews,  their  nephew,  and  this,” 
turning  to  his  companion,  “ is  Miss 
Bates,  one  of  the  best  and  most  charming 
‘ spirits  ’ here.” 

This  introduction  so  frankly  given 
brought  out,  of  course,  a revelation  of 
my  own  name  and  residence,  and  in  brief 
how  my  fondness  for  exploring  and  in- 
vestigating had  led  me  hither. 

“ But  you  were  telling  me,”  I said,  ad- 
dressing Mr.  Andrews  after  we  had 
chatted  awhile,  “ how  this  wonderful 
place  came  into  existence.” 

“ So  I was,”  he  answered,  smiling  a 
little.  “Well,  to  proceed,  these  dear  old 


14  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

people  conceived  the  happy  idea  of  build- 
ing a home  and  founding  a sort  of  ideal 
refuge  for  young  and  old,  with  or  without 
means,  who  had  no  immediate  family  or 
friends  to  look  after  their  welfare.  To- 
gether they  drew  plans  for  the  building, 
but  the  difficulty  was  to  find  the  right 
locality.  Though  no  longer  young,  they 
were  yet  strong  and  able  to  travel,  so 
spent  many  days  and  weeks  searching  for 
a place  satisfactory  as  to  climate  both  for 
human  beings  and  for  what  livestock  they 
might  care  to  raise,  with  soil  lending 
itself  readily  to  the  cultivation  of  various 
nutritious  vegetables  and  fruits,  and  with 
abundant  space  for  the  growth  of  this 
ideal  colony.  Evidently  they  could  have 
found  no  better  location  than  this  for  the 
seasons  here  are  never  extreme,  and  na- 
ture seems  to  have  smiled  her  blessing  on 
the  good  work  so  far,  since  all  our  efforts 
have  met  with  unusual  success.  Shall  I 
go  on?”  he  questioned,  stopping  almost 
abruptly. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  15 

A simultaneous  yes  from  Miss  Bates 
and  myself  must  have  indicated  a real  in- 
terest, and  being  thus  encouraged  he 
proceeded, 

“After  finding  a satisfactory  site,  they 
next  erected  this  substantial  building  of 
plain  brick,  in  which  the  first  objects  to 
be  attained  were  cleanliness,  comfort  and 
convenience.  They  wished  it  commo- 
diously  arranged  with  light  and  airy 
bedrooms,  diningroom,  kitchens,  and  cosy 
nooks  taking  the  place  of  the  long  and 
stately  drawing-room,  these  last  being  so 
arranged  and  connected  with  each  other 
as  to  make  large  assembly-rooms  should 
occasion  demand.  A carefully  selected 
library  was  also  to  have  suitable  quar- 
ters, growing  with  the  place.” 

By  this  time  my  curiosity  was  so  keen 
that  I begged  the  privilege  of  seeing  the 
whole  plant  with  explanations  added  as 
my  guides  took  me  through,  which  re- 
quest was  most  readily  granted.  But  be- 
fore proceeding,  I could  not  refrain  from 


16  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

asking  why  it  was  that  I had  found  the 
place  apparently  deserted.  In  answer  to 
this  query  Mr.  Andrews  said,  while  he 
strolled  leisurely  along, 

“As  you  have  perhaps  noticed,  many, 
in  fact  most  of  the  family  are  elderly 
people.  In  following  out  the  plan  we 
have  tried  not  to  forget  that  older  per- 
sons need  more  sleep,  that  they  are  par- 
ticularly apt  to  wish  to  ‘ take  a nap  ’ dur- 
ing the  higher  degrees  of  heat,  or  per- 
haps in  the  afternoon  anyway,  so  for  the 
benefit  of  all  we  made  the  rule  of  taking 
an  hour  or  two  of  sleep  or  rest  about  this 
time  every  day.  This  rule  is,  of  course, 
not  compulsory  except  insofar  that  no 
one  may  do  anything  that  might  in  any 
way  disturb  the  peace  of  those  wishing  to 
enjoy  a restful  hour.  Hence  the  reason 
for  your  thinking  you  had  discovered  a 
sort  of  deserted  village.” 

Time  was  passing  notwithstanding  this 
most  interesting  conversation,  and  it 
seemed  wise  that  I should  be  seeking  shel- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  17 

ter  for  the  night,  also  something  to  satisfy 
a very  natural  hunger.  Explaining  to  my 
new  found  acquaintances  that  I should 
need  to  get  on  and  requesting  permission 
to  return  the  next  day  so  that  I might  ac- 
cept their  invitation  to  see  the  home  in 
all  its  details,  Miss  Bates  exclaimed, 

“ Why  go  farther  ? ” Do  you  think 
that  we  have  failed  to  provide  a great 
chamber  or  two  for  a chance  visitor,  or 
that  there  is  not  full  and  plenty  with 
which  to  refresh  those  who  merit  out  en- 
tertainment? If  you  will  accept  our  hos- 
pitality, I am  sure  you  will  be  most  wel- 
come during  your  stay  in  these  parts.” 
Naturally,  I was  very  glad  to  accept 
the  invitation  as  cordially  as  it  was  ex- 
tended, including  as  it  did  an  offer  to  send 
to  the  station  for  my  luggage. 

As  we  talked  my  attention  was  at- 
tracted to  the  dainty  white  tablecloths, 
glimpses  of  which  could  be  seen  as  they 
were  being  spread  on  the  tables  men- 
tioned previously.  These  had  been 
2 


18  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

wheeled  to  pleasant  parts  of  the  grounds 
and  near  to  convenient  cupboards  skil- 
fully concealed  by  the  trees  and  garden 
benches.  From  these  cupboards  bright 
faced  young  women  were  taking  plain, 
neat  china,  glassware,  knives,  forks  and 
spoons  and  busily  arranging  the  tables 
for  supper.  I appreciated  the  bright 
mind  which  had  conceived  these  conveni- 
ences, but  was  not  prepared  to  see  the 
food  brought  in  little  carts  and  distrib- 
uted to  the  various  tables.  There  was 
full  and  plenty  of  everything,  fresh, 
wholesome  bread,  fruit,  summer  salads, 
golden  butter,  rich  milk  and  delicious 
cake,  everything  looking  the  more  appe- 
tizing by  being  in  this, — nature’s  own 
dininghall,  decorated  by  her  gifts  in  all 
their  glorious  beauty. 

“ That  looks  most  inviting,”  I re- 
marked, adding  a little  mischievously, 
“what  are  you  going  to  do  with  the  oc- 
casional tea  drinker  or  coffee  ‘fiend’? 
There  seems  provision  for  neither  bever- 
age, served  either  hot  or  cold.” 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  19 

“ Those  who  wish  either  cold  can  have 
all  they  desire,”  Mr.  Andrews  answered, 
“ for  it  is  brought  with  the  other  food. 
For  the  convenience  of  those  preferring 
it  hot,  perhaps  the  easier  way  to  explain 
our  plan  is  to  take  you  to  one  of  those 
hidden  closets.”  And  we  wended  our 
way  thither. 

“ Here,  you  see,”  he  continued,  “ is  a 
small  iron  disk  to  which  an  electric  wire 
is  attached.  Underneath  is  a good  sized 
asbestos  plate  for  protection  from  the 
heated  disk.  Turning  this  little  switch, 
in  almost  a twinkling  tea  or  coffee  can  be 
served  steaming  hot.  By  means  of  this 
little  apparatus  also,  we  are  able  to  heat 
sufficient  water  for  cleansing  the  dishes 
and  other  articles,  which  saves  carrying 
back  and  forth  to  the  main  storeroom 
everything  except  the  food.  It  is  deemed 
economy  to  keep  this  in  one  place  that 
better  account  may  be  kept  of  the  supply 
and  less  waste  result  than  would  be  pos- 
sible if  the  food  were  distributed  in  indi- 


20 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 


vidual  iceboxes.  The  closets,  though 
skilfully  built,  are  made  strong  in  every 
way,  so  that  we  feel  no  danger  in  leaving 
our  material  in  them,  besides  there  are 
some  who  take  turns  as  watchmen,  and 
we  feel  safe  in  their  care.  Therefore 
everything  is  arranged  conveniently  and 
safely.” 

“ There  is  no  doubt  of  that,”  I replied, 
“ for  you  have  certainly  studied  how  to 
get  out  of  life  the  most  and  best,  yet  with- 
out the  appearance  of  laziness,  making 
the  most  of  nature’s  gifts  and  resources 
and  putting  them  into  use  for  the  benefit 
of  all.” 

“ In  the  language  of  the  poet,”  re- 
marked Miss  Bates,  “ we  ‘ Taste  the  joy 
that  springs  from  labor.’  ” 

Taking  our  places  at  one  of  the  tables, 
(there  was  no  choice  for  all  looked 
equally  tempting,  the  members  of  each 
group  seeming  to  have  benignity  stamped 
on  their  faces)  my  friends  introduced  me 
here  and  there  and  the  same  cordial  greet- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  21 

ing  was  apparent  in  all.  Bright,  cheerful 
conversation  made  the  meal  lively,  news- 
paper topics  were  discussed  with  equal 
zest  by  young  and  old,  every  one,  appar- 
ently, seeming  abreast  of  the  times. 
There  was  no  portioning  off  of  all  the 
young  or  all  the  old,  but  a happy  mingling 
of  both.  For  is  it  not  so  in  everything 
in  life?  Even  as  the  older  branches  on 
the  tree  are  decaying  and  falling  off,  they 
can  feel  the  new  life  blood  and  com- 
panionship of  the  younger  shoots  push- 
ing forth  to  take  their  places  when  they 
shall  have  withered  and  fallen.  Only  the 
other  day  I had  given  me  three  red  roses 
on  one  stem.  One  was  full  blown  to  the 
degree  of  decay.  The  next  was  a little 
deeper  in  shade,  all  its  petals  uncurled, 
but  ready  in  a little  while  to  follow  the 
other.  The  last  was  rich  in  its  deep  red 
beauty,  the  outer  petals  open,  but  the  cen- 
ter just  unfolding.  So  it  seemed  to  me 
that  this  happy  mingling  of  all  ages  was 
a most  beautiful  element  in  this  Utopian 
scheme. 


22  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

The  supper  was  one  of  the  most  en- 
joyable of  my  life,  and  is  to  this  day  al- 
ways a pleasant  memory.  After  the  meal, 
all  seemed  to  take  a share,  so  far  as  in 
his  or  her  strength  lay,  in  putting  things 
in  order  without  confusion,  and  those 
exempt  for  any  cause  strolled  about  in 
the  lovely  evening  air,  or  sat  and  chatted 
with  their  neighbors.  And  the  glorious 
sunset  added  beauty  to  the  scene,  fitly 
illustrating  these  exquisite  lines, — 

Touched  by  a light  that  hath  no  name 
A glory  never  sung. 

Aloft  on  sky  and  mountain  wall 
Are  God’s  great  pictures  hung.” 

I wended  my  way  here  and  there,  feeling 
safe  and  happy  in  this  haven  of  rest, 
finding  all  with  whom  I talked  very  in- 
teresting. 

As  darkness  crept  on,  the  grounds 
were  beautifully  illuminated  by  myriads 
of  incandescent  lights  in  various  colored 
globes,  shedding  their  soft  radiance  upon 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  23 

the  scene,  making  it  almost  fairylike  in 
its  beauty. 

Inquiring  the  hour  for  retiring,  I was 
informed  that  no  limit  was  placed,  it  be- 
ing understood  that  each  would  use  dis- 
cretion as  to  proper  hours.  They  were 
after  all  located  not  very  far  from  vari- 
ous attractions  and  churches  of  different 
denominations,  accessible  by  conveyances 
for  the  older  people  and  by  an  electric 
railway  which  I later  discovered  came 
within  easy  reach  of  their  grounds.  They 
told  me,  however,  that  though  not  mean- 
ing to  appear  selfish,  it  was  found  with 
such  a household,  such  a variety  of  people 
and  approved  amusements  of  all  kinds, 
there  was  little  outside  attraction  for 
many  of  them.  Of  course  certain  sup- 
plies had  to  be  obtained  and  extra  prod- 
uce disposed  of,  and  for  those  not  caring 
to  make  the  necessary  trip  others  were 
always  glad  and  willing  to  do  their 
errands. 

I was  shown  for  the  night  to  a dear 
little  room.  “ Dear,”  because  a large 


24  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

bedroom  with  canopied  bed,  imposing 
furniture  and  heavy  draperies  never  ap- 
peals to  me  so  much  as  a simple,  but 
daintily  arranged  chamber  which  makes 
one  just  long  to  lie  right  down  and  go  to 
sleep.  This  furniture  was  white  with  a 
little  sprig  of  green  vine  decorating  it, 
the  color  scheme  of  the  room  in  every 
particular  having  been  carried  out  in  a 
way  at  once  refreshing  and  attractive. 

In  the  act  of  drawing  the  shades  at  the 
windows  the  scene  without  claimed  my 
attention.  The  little  hamlet  a few  miles 
away  lay  wrapped  in  peaceful  slumber. 
Against  the  unclouded  sky  the  spires  of 
the  churches  were  outlined  distinctly, 
while  the  hundreds  of  electric  lights  ap- 
peared like  stars  of  dazzling  brilliancy. 
Down  the  unseen  tracks  of  the  railroad 
near  by  an  electric  car  came  speeding  on 
its  way.  Moved  by  that  wonderful,  in- 
visible power,  it  seemed  to  have  come  and 
gone,  in  its  extreme  rapidity,  almost  by 
magic,  reappearing  m the  far  distance 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  25 

like  a will-o’-the-wisp  as  now  and  then  it 
was  hidden  from  view  by  the  tall  trees. 

My  sleep  was  that  of  the  just  as  well 
as  the  tired,  for  on  bidding  my  friends 
good  night  I learned  that  I had  walked 
much  farther  than  it  seemed,  having  of 
course  taken  the  longer  route. 

On  awaking  the  next  morning  it  was 
raining  and  though  a walk  in  the  rain  is 
by  no  means  objectionable  to  me,  it  was 
pleasant  to  think  of  being  already  at 
headquarters  for  the  day,  particularly 
when  so  many  interesting  things  were  in 
store.  After  arranging  my  toilet  I went 
out  on  the  little  balcony  leading  from  the 
room.  From  there  I could  enjoy  with  re- 
newed appreciation  the  grounds  about  the 
house,  being  surprised  at  their  vast  ex- 
tent, none  too  large,  however,  in  view  of 
the  purpose  of  the  family.  Everything 
looked  bright  and  fresh  from  the  rain  as 
it  gently  fell,  the  fountains  jetting  up  in 
welcome  greeting. 

Thinking  it  must  be  time  for  breakfast 
I reentered  the  room  and  started  for  the 


26  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

diningroom.  Going  through  the  hall  I 
met  a charming  little  woman,  who  gave 
me  a bright  morning  smile  and  invited 
me  to  go  with  her  to  breakfast.  She  had 
reached  beyond  her  three  score,  her  hair 
was  as  beautiful  as  spun  silver,  and  her 
face  bore  the  lines  with  which  time  stamps 
the  character  of  our  life.  Hers  was  only 
kindly  and  she  seemed  my  rose  in  its  full- 
est bloom.  Lightly  putting  my  arm  about 
her  waist  together  we  wended  our  way 
downstairs.  She  was  bright  and  inter- 
esting, her  inquiries  being  delicate,  but  to 
the  point.  She  had  seen  me  the  night  be- 
fore, though  it  happened  that  I had  not 
met  her.  My  remark  on  the  fact  that  it 
was  raining  brought  out  this  answer, 

“ Yes,  but  we  mind  it  not.  We  rejoice 
that  our  efforts  are  helped  and  blessed  by 
God’s  own  hand,  for  do  not  the  berries 
grow  and  ripen  from  the  rain  and  sun, 
our  vegetables  increase  in  plenty  and  our 
cattle  thrive  on  the  rich  grass,  and  does 
not  it  all  help  us  to  help  each  other  'in  this 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  27 

our  cooperative  plan  to  help  one  another  ? 
We  are  grateful  for  the  rains,  for  the 
sunshine  and  for  our  many  blessings.” 
Somehow  I must  have  had  an  intuitive 
feeling  that  this  little  lady  was  none  other 
than  the  kind  spirited  person  who  had 
laid  the  foundation  for  this  happy  home, 
and  fearing  not  to  give  offense,  I frankly 
asked  if  this  were  true. 

“ It  is,”  she  answered.  “ But  since  we 
have  gotten  so  nicely  started  my  husband 
has  been  taken  from  me.”  The  gentle 
eyes  grew  moist  as  she  continued,  “ I 
feel,  however,  that  he  has  gone  to  that 
happier,  brighter  home,  and  although  I 
miss  him  in  many  ways,  I look  forward 
to  the  union  beyond  and  am  making  my- 
self content  and  happy  by  trying  to  bring 
sunshine  into  the  lives  of  others  who 
have  lost  those  equally  dear.  To  me, 

‘ By  his  life  alone. 

Gracious  and  sweet,  the  better  way  was 
shown.’  ” 


28  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

I breathed  a prayer  of  gratitude  that 
the  Father  above  had  put  it  into  the 
hearts  of  some,  at  least,  to  accept  in  such 
spirit  their  afflictions  and  to  seek  thus  to 
bear  them  by  giving  and  getting  hope  and 
cheer. 

By  this  time  we  had  reached  the  din- 
ingroom and  Mr.  Andrews  seeing  us, 
drew  near.  He  introduced  me  to  the 
lady,  his  aunt,  Mrs.  Chester,  but  I think 
she  and  I both  felt  that  a very  friendly 
feeling  had  already  sprung  up  between 
us  and,  on  my  part,  at  least,  I hoped  it 
was  cemented  by  the  more  formal  intro- 
duction. 

“ Well,”  remarked  Mr.  Andrews, 
“ you  see  the  rain  will  prevent  our  eating 
out  of  doors  this  morning,  but  we  trust 
the  meal  inside  will  be  equally  enjoyable 
to  you  for  we  are  a little  proud  of  both 
our  diningrooms.” 

“ I expect  to  find  pleasure  in  seeing 
every  side  of  the  life  here,”  I replied, 
“ and  am  somewhat  glad  that  it  is  possible 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  29 

to  have  the  opportunity  to  observe  it  un- 
der all  conditions.” 

Accompanying  Mrs.  Chester  we  passed 
into  a large  room  with  numerous  tables 
and  comfortable  chairs  having  rubber 
tipped  legs.  On  the  walls  were  pictures, 
neatly  and  tastefully  framed,  of  fish, 
game,  fruit  and  vegetables  in  natural 
tints.  Beautiful  closets,  with  glass  doors 
and  drawers  beneath,  containing  all  the 
necessary  table  accessories,  were  ar- 
ranged at  convenient  points.  There  were 
also  other  closets  with  artistically  carved 
panels,  the  use  of  which  I had  yet  to  dis- 
cover. Nothing,  however,  looked  super- 
fluous, the  room  being  attractive,  but  in- 
tended for  its  particular  purpose  only. 

There  seemed  to  be  no  lingering,  for 
when  we  sat  down  the  room  appeared  to 
me  as  if  it  must  contain  its  entire  house- 
hold. The  tables  drew  my  attention  by 
their  peculiar  construction.  They  were 
round,  the  center  appearing  to  be  separate 
from  the  outer  part  and  to  revolve  inde- 


30  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

pendently.  At  regular  intervals  on  the 
central  part  there  were  convenient  small 
handles  by  which  it  could  be  turned  and 
its  contents  reached  by  those  sitting  at 
the  outer  table.  Everything  was  served 
ready  to  eat,  coffee  and  tea  being  in  pat- 
ent vessels,  into  the  bottom  of  which 
slipped  a hot  asbestos  plate.  The  tables 
averaged  about  five  persons,  each  of 
whom  helped  himself  or  was  helped  by 
another,  the  meal  progressing  as  happily 
as  that  of  the  previous  evening.  Having 
no  more  choice  than  when  out  of  doors, 
there  was  no  seeking  of  a particular  seat, 
but  all  contributed  their  quota  to  making 
the  party  at  every  table  a pleasant  one. 

To  have  attained  such  perfect  pre- 
cision seemed  to  me  must  have  cost  the 
study  of  a lifetime  yet  they  told  me  that 
even  those  who  had  been  there  but  a short 
while  seemed  to  fully  appreciate  the  spirit 
of  the  home  and  to  join  readily  with  the 
rest  in  their  efforts  for  the  best  welfare 
of  all.  Regular  meal  hours  were  fixed. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  31 

every  one  knew  them  and  all  came 
promptly. 

After  breakfast,  the  dishes  were 
washed  at  convenient  porcelain  sinks 
which  were  disclosed  on  opening  the 
other  closets.  The  tables  were  reset  for 
the  next  meal  if  it  were  likely  to  be  eaten 
indoors,  or  the  articles  put  away  till  next 
needed.  Food  and  refuse  were  gathered 
in  proper  receptacles,  put  on  the  shelves 
of  wheeled  trucks  and  taken  to  their  re- 
spective places.  Everything  was  done  not 
hastily,  with  the  effort  of  hurrying  to  get 
through,  but  with  the  intent  and  purpose 
of  doing  it  and  doing  it  right  and  cheer- 
fully. 

I could  not  help  thinking  that  it  seemed 
as  if  some  gentle  fairy  must  have  given 
her  patronage  here,  the  results  appearing 
like  magical  wonders. 

Mr.  Andrews  joined  his  aunt  and  my- 
self as  we  were  leaving  the  room.  In  the 
course  of  conversation  it  came  out  that 
he  was  by  profession  a doctor,  and  prac- 


32  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

tised  in  the  neighboring  towns  as  well  as 
in  this  immediate  hamlet.  Feeling  that 
perhaps  on  my  part  it  was  taking  too 
much  of  his  time  to  show  me  about  the 
place  I said  as  much  and  he  answered, 

“ Do  not  fear.  In  the  first  place,  here 
in  this  particular  locality  I have  little  use 
for  my  professional  knowledge.  We 
seem  to  have  been  more  than  blessed  with 
good  health  and  spirits,  and  my  ability, 
in  greater  or  less  degree,  as  a director 
for  this  home  comes  into  better  play  than 
in  the  administering  of  my  pills  or  pow- 
ders.” A happy  smile  accompanied  this 
remark  as  though  he  felt  heartily  grate- 
ful that  it  was  true. 

I asked  Mrs.  Chester  whither  she  was 
bound  and  she  said, 

“To  look  after  my  children,  keep  busy 
and  out  of  mischief  for  a while,  but  I 
shall  see  you  later  on.  Take  good  care  of 
her,”  she  said  to  Mr.  Andrews  as  she 
left  us. 

“ Which  would  you  like  to  see  first,” 
he  questioned.  “You  have  seen  some  of 


The  Home  of  the  late  Mrs.  H.  Alfarata  Chapman 
ThomDSon. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  33 

our  ideas,  but  what  appeals  most  strongly 
to  you  as  next  to  be  investigated?  ” 

“ Everything,”  I replied  quickly,  “ and 
since  I can  not  choose  as  all  is  equally  in- 
teresting, you  had  better  decide,  for 

‘ The  atmosphere 

Breathes  rest  and  comfort,  and  the  many 
chambers 

Seem  full  of  welcome.’  ” 

“ Very  well,  as  you  are  a woman,  I 
judge  that  the  prettier  parts  may  appeal 
to  you  most  strongly  and  shall  show  you 
our  conversation  corners  and  parlor- 
ettes.”  And  he  led  the  way  to  one  of  the 
latter. 

It  was  furnished  in  such  manner  as  to 
show  careful  thought  for  adaptability  to 
any  season,  yet  seemed  peculiarly  sug- 
gestive of  only  one.  There  was  no  up- 
holstered furniture  to  gather  dust,  lose 
shape,  be  uncomfortable  in  warm  weather 
or  hygienically  unsafe.  Pillows  and  ad- 
justable seat  cushions,  however,  were  in 
plenty  to  be  used  presumably,  in  any  way. 


34  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

for  the  comfort  of  occupants  on  the  at- 
tractive couchs,  chairs  and  rockers  of 
willow.  The  floor  in  wood  of  artistically 
colored  design  had  here  and  there  a rug 
harmonizing  in  color,  but  light  in  weight. 
On  the  walls  were  a few  carefully  chosen 
pictures  of  summer  scenes  and  themes 
suggesting  thoughts  of  that  season.  A 
water-nymph,  Pan,  Psyche  and  other 
choice  pieces  of  bric-a-brac  roused  my  ad- 
miration, as  did  also  the  folios  of  small 
pictures  giving  views  of  cascades,  moun- 
tain trails,  lakes,  forests  and  picturesque 
scenery.  A cursory  look  at  the  maga- 
zines and  books  showed  that  they  too 
were  suggestive  of  nature  study,  outings 
and  the  many  opportunities  peculiar  to 
the  summer  season,  to  come  closer  in 
touch  with  nature.  The  whole  arrange- 
ment of  the  room  seemed  intended  to  sug- 
gest only  summer  and  I asked  if  this  had 
been  their  plan. 

“ Yes,”  said  Mr.  Andrews  in  reply  to 
my  question,  “ that  was  part  of  the  idea, 
but  it  was  not  intended  to  suggest  such 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  35 

thoughts  only,  for  as  I have  already  re- 
marked, we  know  not  extremes  here.  The 
thought  in  the  arrangement  of  each  of 
our  principal  rooms,  as  you  will  discover, 
was,  in  conjunction  with  this  to  give  a 
basis  for  change  and  rest  to  the  mind  if 
one  were  alone,  or  to  serve  as  an  impetus 
for  topics  of  conversation,  discussions 
and  talks  that  will  be  helpful  as  well  as 
interesting,  and  we  look  for  this  in  all 
our  household  so  far  as  possible.” 

The  idea  seemed  beautiful  theoreti- 
cally, but  I could  not  help  feeling  a little 
skeptical  about  it. 

From  there  we  entered  next  what  was 
evidently  a music-room,  for  a fine  piano 
stood  open,  choice  music  and  books  about 
music  and  musicians  lay  on  the  tables, 
and  one  or  two  different  instruments 
gave  proof  that  some  of  the  people  were 
interested  in  other  lines.  Here  too,  ap- 
parently, care  had  been  taken  to  inspire 
to  effort  by  portraits  of  some  of  the 
famous  composers,  including  the  beloved 
Mendelssohn,  Rubenstein,  Chopin,  Liszt, 


36  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

and  an  excellent  copy  of  the  favorite  pic- 
ture “ Song  without  words,”  also  known 
as  “ Mendelssohn  and  his  Sister.”  There 
was  no  lavish  display  in  anything,  but  the 
whole  room  bespoke  a wish  to  rouse  and 
keep  interested  those  with  talent  in  this 
direction.  As  we  turned  to  leave,  a man, 
by  no  means  young,  but  with  purpose  re- 
flected on  his  strong,  kind  face,  entered 
and  Mr.  Andrews  introduced  him  as  Mr. 
Whitehurst.  Not  wishing  to  interrupt 
him  I said, 

“ We  shall  not  disturb  you,  for  I pre- 
sume you  are  another  Franz  Abt  or  per- 
haps a Pinsuti  about  to  try  the  melodies 
floating  through  your  brain,  and  then 
give  them  forth  to  the  world  to  enjoy.” 

“ No,”  he  answered  laughingly,  I am 
practically  but  a beginner.  Though  hav- 
ing a little  latent  talent,  until  I came  here 
the  chance  had  never  been  offered  to  cul- 
tivate it.  Now  I have  opportunity  to 
practise  and  do  what  I can  after  regular 
duties  are  finished,  and  am  very  happy.” 
After  chatting  a little  while  we  bade  him 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  37 

good  morning,  and  left  him  to  pursue  his 
studies. 

Once  outside  of  hearing,  I ventured  to 
inquire  what  the  occupation  might  be  of 
this  particular  man,  and  was  told  that  his 
work  lay  chiefly  in  the  care  of  the  flower 
and  vegetable  gardens  as  he  had  excel- 
lent knowledge  in  this  direction. 

“ Mr.  Whitehurst  came  to  us,”  said 
Mr.  Andrews,  “ heartsick  and  discour- 
aged. He  had  sought  work  in  his  own 
and  other  lines  without  success,  was  alone 
in  the  world  and  not  in  the  best  of  health. 
We  asked  what  he  could  do,  also  an 
honest  statement  of  where  he  had  come 
from  together  with  information  on  a few 
other  minor  points,  then  gave  him  a 
chance  to  do  what  he  could.  I am  glad 
to  say  he  has  proven  fully  worthy  of  our 
confidence.  He  has  under  him  several  of 
our  younger  men  who  are  equally  inter- 
ested in  the  best  farming  and  floriculture. 
By  agreement  and  careful  arrangement 
of  their  work,  each  has  time  for  his  own 
special  line  of  amusement,  and  Mr. 


38  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

Whitehurst  has  practised  diligently.  For- 
tunately, having  in  our  household  one 
who  is  quite  a skilled  musician  we  have 
been  able  to  guide  and  cheer  him  on.  I 
think  we  shall  never  have  any  regret  for 
he  has  proven  most  exemplary  in  every 
way.” 

Again  I inwardly  asked  many  blessings 
on  those  good  people  whose  purpose  in 
life  was  of  the  highest  and  noblest. 
While  thinking  thus,  we  had  reached  an- 
other room  which  I immediately  con- 
jectured had  been  planned  to  represent 
fall.  Here  again  was  unupholstered  fur- 
niture, but  its  framework  carried  the 
colors  of  autumn  foliage.  Some  of  the 
pictures  were  of  the  woods  in  their  rich 
beauty  at  the  turning  of  the  leaves,  others 
were  of  the  hunt,  the  vineyard  and  merry 
parties  gathering  nuts.  The  literature 
also  suggested  seasonable  topics  and  one 
could  only  feel  happy  amid  such  sur- 
roundings. I was  getting  bewildered  by 
the  successful  manner  in  which  this  novel 
idea  had  been  carried  out  and  less  skep- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  39 

tical,  and  had  to  show  my  admiration  in 
numerous  expressions  of  praise. 

A graceful  turn  past  pretty  corners 
brought  us  to  the  library  which  was  so 
inviting  with  its  little  tables,  comfortable 
chairs  and  shelves  well  filled  with  the 
best  literature,  dictionaries,  cyclopedias 
and  other  reference  books.  Pictures  of 
the  “ Poets  Corner,”  of  the  “ Taj  Mahal,” 
of  the  “ Children  of  Charles  I of  Eng- 
land,” of  the  “ Colosseum  ” were  an  in- 
spiration to  explore  into  the  history  of 
various  countries,  while  excellent  casts 
of  the  “ Winged  Victory  of  Samathrace,” 
“ Mercury,”  and  the  “ Three  Fates,” 
busts  of  Homer,  Milton,  Joan  of  Arc, 
Longfellow  and  Whittier  seemed  to  make 
one  involuntarily  long  to  gain  knowledge 
of  mythology,  art,  famous  people,  poetry 
and  other  interesting  subjects. 

“ Our  library  is  small  as  yet,”  said  Mr. 
Andrews,  “ but  we  wish  it  to  grow  with 
us,  to  speak  in  itself  of  the  progress  of 
our  life  here.  Therefore  selections  and 
additions  are  made  with  judicious  care 


40  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

and  we  have  allowed  ample  room  for  a 
few  years  growth  at  least. 

Leading  into  the  library  was  a smaller 
room  or  alcove  arranged  with  conveni- 
ences for  a teacher  and  pupils,  and  even 
as  we  entered  a little  girl  was  just  finish- 
ing a morning  lesson  in  arithmetic.  A 
bright  face  young  woman  accompanied 
her  and  both  looked  happy.  Our  intro- 
ductions and  conversation  revealed  the 
fact  that  the  elder  was  a Miss  Lorimer 
and  had  formerly  been  governess  in  a 
family  of  wealth,  who  believed  in  edu- 
cating their  children  by  travel  as  well  as 
by  books.  She  seemed  to  have  a store  of 
knowledge  made  all  the  richer  by  coming 
in  close  contact  and  studying  things  in 
fact  as  well  as  in  fancy. 

“ My  little  pupil,  Alice,  here,”  she  said, 
“ is  particularly  happy  in  having  mastered 
a very  hard  problem  for  her  in  mathe- 
matics. We  get  on  very  well  in  other 
subjects,  but  this  seems  more  difficult. 
Therefore  to  make  it  perhaps  a little 
plainer  and  also  less  tedious  than  con- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  41 

stant  study  from  books,  we  are  going  out 
now  to  study  arithmetic  from  nature. 
Everything  looks  refreshed  since  the  rain 
and  the  ground  absorbs  the  moisture  so 
quickly  that  I think  we  shall  be  safe.  We 
are  going  to  add,  subtract,  multiply  and 
divide  the  rows  of  potatoes  in  the  vege- 
table garden  and  incidentally  take  a les- 
son in  botany  as  we  study  the  blossoms, 
leaves,  roots  and  general  manner  in 
which  potatoes  grow.  We  shall  have  a 
happy  time,  shall  we  not,  Alice?  ” 

“Yes,  Miss  Lorimer,”  the  child  an- 
swered. “ I am  always  happy  here. 
While  I am  busy  with  my  hands  putting 
away  the  dishes  and  placing  the  chairs 
about  the  tables  in  the  diningroom,  my 
mind  is  also  full  of  thoughts  about  my 
lessons  and  hoping  you  will  have  some- 
thing new  in  store  for  me.  And  I feel  so 
glad  to  be  useful  that  it  seems  to  take 
almost  only  a minute  to  do  anything. 
My!  but  I’m  glad  they  brought  me  here.” 
The  dear  little  face  did  indeed  look 
bright  and  happy  as  we  all  said  good 


42  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

morning  and  they  turned  away  together. 

“ Truly,”  I said  to  Mr.  Andrews,  “ you 
have  certainly  all  learned  the  pleasure  of 
giving  as  well  as  of  receiving,  for  Miss 
Lorimer  looks  quite  as  pleased  as  little 
Alice.” 

“ Yes,”  he  answered,  “ that  is  so.  They 
who  thus  give  of  themselves  seem  to  be 
as  glad  to  impart  their  knowledge  as 
those  seeking  it  are  to  gain  it.  Here,  any 
who  lack  instruction  are  helped  in  all  lines 
by  those  having  ability  to  teach.  Miss 
Lorimer  from  her  large  experience  is 
very  successful  in  teaching  both  young 
and  old,  and  has  a most  delightful  way  of 
adopting  methods  likely  to  keep  all  inter- 
ested and  result  in  real  study.” 

“As  an  aid  in  such  work,”  he  con- 
tinued, “ we  have  started  here  a minia- 
ture museum,”  and  he  led  the  way  across 
the  room  to  where  glass  cases  stood  con- 
taining specimens  of  birds,  insects,  min- 
erals and  animals  that  were  common 
about  the  place  or  that  had  been  obtained 
elsewhere  and  contributed.  An  excep- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  43 

tionally  fine  botanic  collection  carefully 
mounted  was  of  more  than  ordinary 
interest. 

“ How  was  it  possible,”  I asked,  “ for 
you  to  think  of  everything  to  thus  com- 
plete the  family  life  here?  ” 

“ Perhaps  it  was  easier  than  you 
think,”  Mr.  Andrews  replied.  “Although 
my  aunt  and  her  husband  in  establishing 
this  home  had  certain  lines  which  they 
wished  to  follow,  they  never  failed  to  get 
ideas  from  all  and  every  one  who  could 
contribute  anything  toward  making  life 
within  these  walls  happy  for  both  young 
and  old.  They  were  fortunate  in  having 
among  their  friends  some  men  and 
women  with  rare  minds,  a little  means, 
and,  like  themselves,  without  relatives. 
Therefore,  when  spoken  to  regarding 
this  novel  scheme  they  were  only  too  glad 
to  become  members  of  the  household,  to 
do  their  share  in  its  labor  and  contribute 
their  quota  for  the  good  of  all.” 

“ Had  this  not  been  so,”  I answered, 
“ your  wonderful  home  would  have  been 


44  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

an  utter  impossibility.  It  takes,  first  of 
all,  people  possessing  broad,  liberal  spir- 
its, willing  to  give  in  every  way  for  the 
benefit  of  others,  to  make  success  crown 
such  an  effort  as  this.  Knowledge  is  a 
very  necessary  item,  but  unaccompanied 
with  generosity  of  heart,  will  ever  be  like 
the  miser’s  gold  hidden  away, — a prin- 
cipal accruing  no  interest.  While  not  in 
use,  neither  can  circulate  for  the  benefit 
of  the  world  or  carry  out  its  real 
purpose.” 

To  this  Mr.  Andrews  replied,  “ Your 
comparison  is  not  only  a good  one,  but 
quite  true.  We  try  in  every  way  to  live 
for  each  other  and  to  hoard  up  nothing.” 

“ But  here  we  are  to  our  next  parlor- 
ette  which  may  possibly  be  termed  ‘ win- 
ter” However,  if  this  means  to  you  only 
snow  covered  earth,  ice-locked  rivers, 
people  in  furs  and  the  jingle  of  sleigh- 
bells,  you  can  look  for  suggestions  for 
such  thoughts  in  the  pictures  mainly  and 
some  of  the  literature.  We  do  not  wish 
our  smiles  to  freeze  on  the  lips,  our 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  45 

hearts  to  coldly  respond  to  the  pleas  of 
others,  nor  our  minds  even  temporarily 
inactive.  We  would  get  from  winter 
thoughts  of  purity  when  Mother  Earth 
puts  on  her  ermine  mantle;  of  lightheart- 
edness as  the  children  skate  merrily  over 
frozen  waters  glistening  in  the  sunlight, 
or  faces  smile  out  on  you  as  sleighs  skim 
by  with  their  happy  occupants ; of  a 
happy  home  circle  gathered  about  a great 
open  fire  as  grandfather  and  grand- 
mother tell  of  bygone  days  when  they  too 
were  young  and  enjoyed  roasting  nuts  or 
apples  before  the  bright  fire,  or  shook  the 
corn-popper  till  every  kernel  had  burst 
into  a toothsome  morsel.” 

I could  easily  imagine  such  happy 
scenes  as  Mr.  Andrews  pictured  and  mar- 
veled not  to  find  the  “ winter  ” room 
quite  as  he  had  described  it.  The  fur- 
niture was  of  a rich,  warm  coloring,  still 
carrying  out  the  hygienic  principle,  since 
none  of  it  was  upholstered,  but,  as  in  the 
other  rooms,  its  odd  shapes  and  restful 
pillows  made  it  equally  as  inviting  as  if 


46  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

of  the  richest  satin.  Against  the  snowy 
trimmings  of  the  room  and  the  white- 
framed pictures  it  was  most  eifective. 
The  books  of  travel,  history  and  other 
more  solid  subjects,  and  magazines  con- 
taining biographic  sketches  and  articles 
on  topics  of  the  day,  invited  real,  earnest 
reading.  But  an  object  of  special  inter- 
est was  a rug  of  quite  good  size,  in  the 
center  of  the  floor,  whose  color  was  pure 
white.  I knew  immediately  that  it  was 
not  fur,  since  they  had  told  me  that  there 
were  no  extremes  in  weather  in  that 
locality.  Presumably,  therefore,  a rug 
of  that  material  would  not  find  resting- 
place.  On  examination  it  proved  to  be 
nothing  but  white  cord.  Mr.  Andrews 
seeing  my  attention  was  drawn  to  it 
explained, 

“ That  rug  we  prize  very  highly, 
though  so  simple  in  its  makeup.  It  is,  as 
you  see,  knit  of  plain  white  cord  and  put 
on  a substantial  backing.  One  of  our 
eldest  ladies,  now  gone  to  rest,  enjoyed 
passing  some  of  her  leisure  time  in  this 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  47 

way,  with  the  result  that  the  rug  is  not 
only  unique,  but  quite  effective.  Though 
from  its  fluffiness  it  looks  somewhat 
heavy,  with  the  great  conveniences  in  our 
laundry  it  is  easily  washed  and  is  there- 
fore always  white  and  clean.” 

I could  almost  see  the  dear  hands  ply- 
ing the  needle,  and  the  smiles  of  pleasure 
that  must  have  crossed  the  good  woman’s 
face  as  she  watched  the  work  grow  be- 
neath her  nimble  fingers  till  at  last  it  was 
done  and  she  could  give  it,  showing  in  its 
color  the  purity  of  her  life,  in  its  work 
the  activity  of  mind  and  heart  till  the 
last,  and  in  all,  her  love  for  this  happy 
home  on  earth. 

I liked  this  room  so  well  I would  fain 
have  lingered,  but  I felt  that  Mr.  An- 
drews’s time  was  precious. 

The  one  next  to  this  proved  to  be  an 
attractive  corner  which  in  itself  was  none 
other  than  a small  art  gallery.  I recog- 
nized copies  of  a number  of  the  master- 
pieces, well  chosen,  and  intended,  pre- 
sumably, to  carry  out  their  mission  of 


48  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

creating  true  admiration  and  apprecia- 
tion of  the  beautiful.  Here  too  were 
books  about  art  and  artists.  Neat  port- 
folios contained  specimens,  which  were 
more  than  fair,  of  some  of  the  efforts  of 
members  of  the  household.  There  were 
also  a few  excellent  pieces  of  statuary.  At 
one  side,  hidden  by  light  drapery,  was  an 
exit  to  another  room  of  larger  size  in 
which  I discovered  was  a small,  but 
seemingly  very  fine  pipe  organ.  En- 
circled in  suitable  frames  were  portraits 
of  Bach,  Haydn  and  Handel,  renowned 
for  their  exquisite  religious  composi- 
tions. There  were  also  enlarged  copies 
of  details  from  Sargent’s  famous  Frieze 
of  the  Prophets  and  Abbey’s  Quest  of 
the  Holy  Grail,  while  an  excellent  repro- 
duction of  Correggio’s  Holy  Night  with 
all  its  appealing  sweetness  awoke  in  me 
renewed  admiration  for  the  picture. 

I felt  instinctively  that  the  purpose  of 
this  room  was  not  only  to  give  oppor- 
tunity for  practice  and  pleasure  to  those 
whose  musical  ability  lay  in  this  direc- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  49 

tion,  but  also,  should  any  wish,  to  be  used 
for  sacred  service  during  Sunday  hours 
or  at  other  times.  Turning  to  Mr.  An- 
drews I asked  if  my  surmise  was  correct. 

“ Yes,”  he  said,  “ often  many  of  our 
older  members  feel  unable  to  take  the 
long  trip  to  church.  Frequently,  also, 
the  younger  people  for  some  reason  are 
disinclined  to  go.  Amid  such  surround- 
ings, however,  there  is  opportunity  for 
all  to  express  their  praise  and  thanks- 
giving.” 

Our  way  then  led  us  to  another  room 
whose  predominant  coloring  in  delicate 
greens,  exquisite  pictures,  inviting  books 
and  graceful  furniture  declared  it  to  be 
indicative  of  spring  with  all  her  beauty 
of  leafing  trees,  budding  blossoms,  rip- 
pling waters  released  from  winter’s  cold 
embrace  and  the  time  when  all  nature 
seems  to  have  gained  new  life,  new 
strength,  new  inspiration.  I think  I liked 
this  best.  I could  get  from  it  my  concep- 
tion of  what  our  lives  should  be.  Free 
from  the  repelling  cold  of  winter  in  our 

4 


50  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

manner,  in  our  thoughts  and  in  our 
hearts;  free  from  the  feeling  of  depres- 
sion, lassitude  and  inactivity  accompany- 
ing hot  summer  days;  free  from  the  in- 
voluntary sense  of  sadness  and  cheerless- 
ness that  sometimes  comes  to  those  who 
know  the  changes  of  the  seasons  and  in 
fall  see  the  days  glide  by,  now  bright,  now 
gloomy,  the  leaves  showing  forth  in  all 
their  autumn  splendor  before  they  gently 
drop  and  die,  and  nature  seems  to  have 
reached  perfection  only  to  wither  and  de- 
cay. But  spring  carries  the  blessed 
thought  of  resurrection,  of  a new  life  on 
earth  and  beyond,  of  hope  and  cheer,  of 
inspiration  to  do  and  to  be  what  is  best. 
So  of  all  I proclaimed  this  my  choice. 

“ Spring,  Spring,  beautiful  spring 

Laden  with  glory  and  light  you  some; 

With  the  leaf,  the  bloom,  and  the  but- 
terfly’s wing. 

Making  our  earth  a fairy  home. 

The  primroses  glitter  — the  violets 
peep; 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  51 

And  zephyr  is  feasting  on  flower  and 
bloom. 

Arouse,  ye  sluggards,  what  soul  shall 
sleep 

While  the  lark’s  in  the  sky,  and  the 
bee’s  on  the  palm? 

The  sweetest  song,  and  the  loudest 
string. 

Should  pour  a welcome  to  beautiful 
Spring.” 

The  beauty  and  restful  peace  of  the 
entire  place  appealed  to  me  so  strongly 
that  I longed  to  ask  permission  to  spend 
at  least  a part  of  my  vacation  days  there. 
The  idea  and  wish  growing  stronger  I 
turned  to  Mr.  Andrews  and  said, 

“ Pardon  the  many  questions  with 
which  I may  possibly  trouble  you,  and 
also  what  may  be  an  unusual  request. 
Do  you  ever  take  as  boarders  or  as  tem- 
porary members  of  the  household,  to  do 
their  share  of  duties  here,  strangers 
who  may  chance  to  find  this  delightful 
place?  ” 


52  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

“ Yes,”  said  Mr.  Andrews,  “ we  have 
had  both,  though  we  prefer  the  latter  for 
the  reason  that  the  visitor  has  better  op- 
portunity to  study  our  life,  perhaps  to 
make  suggestions  in  lines  of  which  we 
had  not  thought,  or  to  take  our  ideas  with 
him  or  her,  as  the  case  may  be,  and  sow 
the  good  seed  in  other  soil.” 

“ I fear  that  I should  have  little  chance 
to  do  any  such  work  though  I should  cer- 
tainly try”  I answered.  My  inward 
thought  was,  however,  that  perhaps  it 
would  be  possible  for  me  to  remain  long 
enough  to  get  a thorough  understanding 
of  their  life,  describe  it  in  such  manner 
and  give  it  to  the  world  in  such  form  that 
the  excellent  work  might  thus  be  in- 
creased indirectly  by  my  efforts.  Aloud, 
I continued, 

“ Would  you  be  willing  to  take  me  as 
one  or  the  other  for  a portion  of  my  leis- 
ure or  for  all?  I could  give  some  com- 
pensation and  also  share  in  certain  work. 

“ I think,”  said  Mr.  Andrews,  “ that 
we  can  arrange  it  satisfactorily  to  both 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  53 

parties  and  would  suggest  that  you  send 
immediately  for  anything  further  that 
you  may  require.” 

“ Thank  you  most  sincerely,”  I replied, 
but  in  the  meantime  as  we  have  taken 
nearly  all  the  morning  in  getting  thus  far 
and  as  you  have  graciously  permitted  me 
to  remain  longer,  shall  I not  excuse  you, 
Mr.  Andrews,  for  those  who  have  a 
greater  claim  on  your  time?  I shall  now 
feel  more  or  less  free  to  roam  at  will  in 
the  rooms  I have  already  seen  and  do  not 
wish  to  engage  too  much  of  the  time  of 
you  good  people.” 

“ I am  a little  surprised  to  find  that  it 
is  so  late,”  he  answered,  “ still  one  can 
hardly  skim  over  our  model  if  he  would 
know  it  in  all  its  details.  There  are  some 
patients  whom  I must  see,  so  I will  leave 
you  for  a while. 

As  he  left  me  I turned  to  study  more 
the  grouping  of  the  rooms  we  had  vis- 
ited. They  were  on  either  side  an  elip- 
tical  shaped  hallway  that  terminated  in  a 
graceful  entrance  to  the  dining-room 


54  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

which  was  the  full  width  of  the  house  at 
the  rear.  In  the  center  of  the  hall  was  a 
most  ingeniously  constructed  fountain 
which  served  not  only  to  beautify,  but 
also  as  a convenient  place  for  drinking 
water  for  that  floor.  It  represented  a 
miniature  lake  in  which,  indeed,  sweet 
waterlilies  appeared  to  float.  They 
proved  to  be,  however,  but  fine  enamel 
work  in  colors  so  natural  as  to  tempt  one 
to  gather  the  lilies  as  they  lay  there. 
From  the  ewer  in  the  right  hand  of  the 
exquisitely  carved  figure  in  the  center, 
the  water  poured  forth  to  the  lake  be- 
neath, while  in  the  left  hand  another 
beautiful  lily  was  upheld,  completely  hid- 
ing in  its  cup  a drinking-glass. 

I lingered  here  with  admiring  gaze. 
The  incandescent  lights  above  had  shades 
of  green  and  white  only,  and  I longed  for 
evening  to  come  when  I could  see  the 
fountain  in  its  full  beauty.  The  potted 
ferns  arranged  so  cleverly  amid  the  large 
pieces  of  natural  rock  made  the  effect 
very  charming.  On  the  previous  even- 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  55 

ing,  being  somewhat  fatigued  and  en- 
thralled by  all  that  I had  seen  before 
entering  the  house,  I had  given  this  de- 
lightful spot  only  a cursory  glance  and 
had  not  realized  how  beautiful  it  was. 

Ascending  the  broad  stairway  I hap- 
pened to  meet  Mrs.  Chester  and  with  her 
had  the  pleasure  of  visiting  several  of  the 
rooms  and  their  occupants. 

Among  the  first  on  whom  we  called 
was  an  elderly  gentleman.  There  he  sat 
in  his  easy  chair,  looking  bright  and 
cheerful  despite  the  gray  clouds  without. 
Our  introduction  revealed  the  fact  that  I 
had  known  some  of  the  younger  mem- 
bers of  his  family,  but  they  were  all  gone, 
and  he,  the  last,  had  come  to  this  haven 
of  rest  and  peace.  Though  a little  feeble, 
he  was  able  to  get  about,  slowly  but 
surely,  with  the  younger  people’s  help, 
and  I was  happy  to  see  as  his  companion 
a young  boy  who  had  been  sitting  there 
so  quietly  that  we  had  hardly  notiqed 
him. 


56  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

“And  who  may  you  be,”  I asked. 

“Well,”  he  said,  “I  call  myself  Mr. 
Lansing’s  ‘chum,’  because  we  spend  so 
much  time  together,  but  my  name  is  Ned 
Tompkins.” 

“So  you  are  Mr.  Lansing’s  ‘ chum.’ 
What  do  you  mean  by  that?  ” I inquired. 

“ It  is  this  way,”  he  said,  “ when  they 
found  and  brought  me  here  six  years  ago 
Mr.  Lansing  saw  me  and  began  to  take 
particular  interest  in  me.  Though  they 
were  all  good  his  kindness  seemed  to 
touch  the  right  spot  and  was  very  wel- 
come to  a waif  like  me,  for  he  seemed  like 
a grandpa  would  be  to  a boy  if  he  had 
one,  and  I never  knew  how  nice  it  was  to 
have  a real  grandpa,  but  used  to  imagine 
it  lots  of  times.  So  I’ve  tried  to  be  all  I 
could  to  him  and  have  grown  to  love  him 
dearly,  and  we  are  good  comrades. 
Aren’t  we,  Mr.  Lansing?”  he  broke  off 
abruptly. 

“ That  we  are,  my  lad,”  Mr.  Lansing 
answered,  “ and  very  glad  I am  to  have 
you.”  Turning  to  me  he  continued,  “ He 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  57 

makes  the  days  go  happily  by  for  me  by 
bringing  me  the  papers  and  reading  (for 
my  eyes  don’t  see  just  as  they  used),  and 
now  and  then  we  play  checkers  or  the 
other  games  dear  to  such  old  people  as  I, 
and  days  when  I can’t  get  around  so  well, 
he  never  forgets  me  up  here.” 

“ But  you  don’t  tell,”  interposed  Ned, 
“ all  you  do  for  me,  how  you  have  taken 
the  old  books  down  in  the  library  and  ex- 
plained things  to  me  as  I have  read,  and 
how  we  have  built  bridges,  cut  out  steam- 
boats from  paper  and  wood,  and  had  the 
most  wonderful  trains  and  locomotives, 
and  how  we  have  played  we  were  in  dif- 
ferent stations  and  telegraphed  and  tele- 
phoned, and  best  of  all  how  we  made  a 
tiny  little  elevator  and  ran  it  with  elec- 
tricity by  attaching  a wire  to  the  current. 
Why,  we  have  had  the  greatest  fun  you 
ever  saw,  and  now  I am  getting  so  big 
and  strong  that  he  can  trust  himself  to 
me  and  I am  very  proud  and  happy.” 
And  he  tried  to  hide  the  tears  that 
would  come,  despite  his  being  ‘ big  and 


58  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

strong/  because,  I suppose,  they  were 
tears  of  joy  like  many  of  us  have,  in  that 
he  was  able  to  do  something  in  return  for 
the  old  gentleman’s  kindness. 

“ Ned  is  a good  boy,”  said  Mrs.  Ches- 
ter, “ and  every  day  we  learn  the  wisdom 
of  our  decision  in  taking  the  lad  into  our 
hearts  and  home.”  The  kindly  hand  on 
the  boy’s  shoulder  as  she  spoke  these 
words  and  gentle  pat  as  we  turned  to  go 
I know  helped  to  keep  warm  his  love  and 
affection  for  the  dear  good  woman. 

I am  very  glad  to  have  seen  you 
both,”  I said,  in  parting,  “ and  know  that 
we  shall  meet  often,  for  I am  going  to  be 
here  too  for  a while,  and  enjoy  this 
happy  home.  But  good  morning  to  you 
now,  I want  to  see  more  of  the  people 
here.” 

As  we  left  them  I,  as  usual,  imme- 
diately plied  Mrs.  Chester  with  many 
questions. 

“ The  man  is  no  longer  young,”  I said, 
“ in  what  way  does  he  contribute  to  your 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  59 

home  here,  for  of  course,  like  all  the  rest, 
he  prefers  to  do  something.” 

“ In  the  first  place,”  replied  Mrs.  Ches- 
ter, “ his  many  fine  attributes  and  noble 
character  are  a lesson  to  each  of  us  and 
an  incentive  to  try  to  become  likewise. 

‘ He  wears  the  marks  of  many  years  well 
spent, 

Of  virtue,  truth  well  tried,  and  wise 
experience.’ 

Were  there  nothing  else,  it  would  be 
enough  to  have  such  a grand  example  be- 
fore us  day  after  day  to  study.  Beyond 
that,  as  you  probably  gathered  from  what 
the  boy  said,  Mr.  Lansing  is  a fine  scholar 
and  can  give  of  his  store  of  knowledge 
much  for  our  benefit.  Till  his  mind  shall 
fail  utterly,  we  can  draw  from  him  in 
every  way,  and  in  any  case,  we  shall  give 
of  the  love  and  kindness  that  fills  our 
hearts  for  him.  Ned  is  indeed  very  glad 
that  he  is  growing  large,  for  when  Mr. 
Lansing  feels  too  weak  to  attempt  the 
long  walk  through  the  halls  to  meals,  or 


60  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

out  of  doors,  he  has  a comfortable  wheel- 
chair in  which  Ned  not  only  rolls  him  to 
the  elevator  to  bring  him  downstairs,  but 
takes  him  out  in  the  open  air  so  that  he 
has  opportunity  to  enjoy  with  the  rest  of 
us  all  of  God’s  precious  gifts.  He  has 
but  to  ring  his  bell  for  anything  wanted 
or  to  share  in  whatever  the  hour  may 
have  in  store,  and  we  gladly  serve  him  or 
help  him  to  join  us.  His  prayers  in  our 
hours  of  religious  service  are  most  help- 
ful and  beautiful,  and  not  infrequently 
we  hear  his  voice,  though  weak,  joining 
in  our  songs  of  praise  and  hymns  of 
thanksgiving.” 

“You  can  not  realize  how  all  this 
thoughtfulness  and  unselfish  considera- 
tion for  older  people  impresses  me,  but 
does  Ned  never  tire  of  Mr.  Lansing’s 
company,  or  is  it  the  old  story  of  oppo- 
sites having  strong  attraction  for  each 
other  ? ” I smilingly  asked. 

“ No,”  replied  Mrs.  Chester,  “ Ned 
seems  never  too  weary.  On  the  contrary, 
soon  after  his  arrival  he  asked  if  he 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  61 

could  not  have  a room  near  to  Mr.  Lan- 
sings’s,  which  privilege  we  granted,  and 
their  constant  and  close  association  has 
developed  into  a most  loving  relationship 
which  is  a delight  to  us  all.” 

“ It  is  most  fortunate,”  I answered, 
“ that  this  is  true  as  it  works  in  so  satis- 
factorily with  your  aims  and  purposes.” 
“ It  is  but  one  more  of  the  many  things 
for  which  we  have  to  be  thankful,”  said 
Mrs.  Chester  in  a tone  of  gratitude. 

During  our  conversation  we  had 
walked  leisurely  along  the  hall,  which  in 
itself  was  as  attractive  as  every  other 
part  of  the  home.  Beautiful  pictures 
graced  the  walls  and  evidently  these 
people  did  not  believe  in  confining  flow- 
ers, books,  newspapers  or  other  litera- 
ture to  any  particular  spot,  for  there  were 
numerous  plants  in  unexpected  corners, 
whose  bright  bloom  and  delicate  fra- 
grance charmed  you  to  them,  and  maga- 
zines and  papers  on  tables  or  in  racks 
tempted  one  to  gather  a bit  of  knowledge 


62  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

while  resting  in  one  of  the  easy  chairs 
conveniently  at  hand. 

I glanced  in  the  various  chambers  as 
we  passed  along  and  saw  they  were  being 
rapidly  put  in  order.  I wondered  what 
sort  of  system  could  make  this  part  of 
the  work  run  with  almost  clocklike  pre- 
cision, but  when  Mrs.  Chester  told  me 
that  each  who  was  able  took  care  of  her 
own  rooms  and  that  the  rest  were  looked 
after  by  voluntary  choice  and  under- 
standing between  the  female  constitu- 
ency, I could  quickly  realize  that  with 
every  convenience  at  hand  and  willing, 
loving  hearts,  labor  in  all  directions  for 
every  one  was  as  much  pleasure  as  toil. 

“As  for  the  men,”  said  Mrs.  Chester 
in  farther  explanation,  “ those  who  seem 
best  fitted  for  certain  lines  of  work  are 
given  opportunity  to  carry  out  their 
tastes  and  efforts  in  that  direction,  vary- 
ing it  during  leisure  moments  with  what- 
ever diversion  appeals  to  them  or  a dif- 
ferent kind  of  work,  if  they  choose, 
which  latter  they  very  often  do.  But 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  63 

how  this  plan  works  you  will  find  out 
later.  Let  us  stop  here  and  visit  for  a 
while,”  she  concluded,  at  the  same  time 
knocking  at  the  door  of  another  chamber. 

A sweet  voice  bade  us  enter  and  on 
opening  the  door  we  found  the  occupant 
to  be,  as  I had  supposed,  a young  woman 
of  about  twenty.  She  was  reclining 
against  a bed-rest  with  comfortable  pil- 
lows, but  something  about  her  led  me  to 
think  that  she  was  a little  helpless. 

“ This  is  Miss  Delancey,”  said  Mrs. 
Chester  in  introducing  us  and  I came 
close  so  as  to  cordially  press  the  fragile 
hand  extended  in  greeting.  We  chatted 
a while,  and  then  Mrs.  Chester  said  that 
she  would  excuse  herself  and  leave  me 
with  Miss  Delancey  for  a little  visit.  I 
quite  enjoyed  the  prospect  of  seeing 
something  of  the  character  of  this  young 
lady. 

“ Having  found  such  an  abundance  of 
everything  here  to  contribute  to  the  high- 
est degree  of  health  and  happiness,”  I 
said,  “ I think  I hardly  expected  to  find 


64  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

any  one  who  has  not,  seemingly,  taken 
the  elixir  of  life  and  become  proof 
against  age  or  disease.” 

“ No,”  she  answered,  smiling  a little, 
“ here  is  one  who  must  ever  be  dependent 
on  the  kindness  of  others.  Though  with 
assistance  I can  sometimes  get  from  the 
bed  to  a chair,  the  spine  is  affected  and 
there  is  little  hope  of  my  ever  recovering. 
Ofttimes  I have  nearly  given  up,  but 
with  the  cheer  and  comfort  of  all  these 
kind  people  I feel  that  I have  still  much 
for  which  to  be  thankful,  and  so  have 
tried  to  find  my  special  corner  in  life  and 
to  fill  it  as  best  I can  even  though  a crip- 
ple. God  has  blessed  me  with  all  the 
senses,  and  when  I realize  the  value  of 
these  contrasted  with  the  loss  of  sight, 
hearing,  or  the  power  of  speech,  life  has 
become  almost  dazzling  with  all  that  it 
holds  out  for  me.  You  see,”  she  broke 
off,  “ that  if  nothing  else,  I am  ever 
anxious  to  talk  to  a willing  listener.” 
“And,”  I added,  “ you  certainly  have 
a most  willing  one  in  me.  I am  only  too 


Education  Building,  Albany  N.  Y.,  where  Mrs.  H.  Alfarata  Chapman 
Thompson  was  stenographer  for  many  years  in  Catalogue  Department, 
University  of  the  State  of  New  York. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  65 

glad  to  hear  that  you  may  have  to  say, 
and  am  more  than  pleased  that  you  are 
inclined  to  talk  so  freely  of  yourself.” 

“ Yes,”  she  continued,  somewhat  medi- 
tatively, “ I have  decided  that  if  there  is 
anything  in  my  enforced  invalidism  that 
can  be  turned  into  a joy,  I am  resolved  to 
make  it  so.  But  at  first  you  don’t  know 
how  hard  it  was  not  to  feel  envious,  dis- 
heartened, cross  and  fretful,  until,  as  I 
have  said,  I suddenly  woke  up  and  found 
that  there  was  much  for  my  brain  and 
hands  to  do  if  only  the  heart  gave  them 
the  right  impulse.  So  the  good  people 
here  give  me  what  I ask  for,  within  rea- 
son, and  I spend  my  time  thinking,  plan- 
ning and  studying  to  give  of  whatever  in 
myself  is  worth  the  giving.  Fortunately, 
Mr.  Andrews  being  a doctor,  insures  for 
me  the  best  of  care.  Also,  one  of  the 
ladies  here  has  been  and  is  a most  excel- 
lent trained  nurse  and  is  kindness  itself 
to  me.  Her  generous  consideration  of 
my  welfare,  and  constant  help  and  atten- 
tion are  a boon  and  solace  to  my  heart. 


66  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

All  women  have  their  vanities  and  weak- 
nesses you  know,”  she  jestingly  con- 
cluded. 

“ May  I ask  how  you  employ  the  hours 
to  make  the  time  slip  by  with  other  than 
lagging  footsteps?” 

“ Certainly,”  Miss  Delancey  answered. 
“ Being  a woman  and  an  invalid  I one 
day  bethought  me  of  the  many  who  were 
afflicted  likewise,  but  not  so  happily  sit- 
uated, and  I immediately  tried  to  think 
what  I could  do  and  how  I could  do  it  to 
make  the  days  less  weary  for  them  as, 
perhaps,  they  too  lay  in  bed,  unable  to  be 
up  and  doing.  So  I have  taken  from 
various  magazines  and  papers  attractive 
pictures  and  good  literature,  and  from 
these  the  younger  unfortunates  have 
made  small  books,  not  too  heavy,  with 
carefully  arranged  pages  of  different  col- 
ored muslins.  It  has  been  a pleasure  also 
to  select  a short  piece  of  poetry  and 
search  for  a picture  or  two  to  illustrate 
it.  Again,  I have  taken  prose  writings 
and,  having  a little  ability  for  sketching. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  67 

have  drawn  on  white  muslin,  pictures 
which  I thought  might  make  the  story- 
more  readable.  I have  made  a number 
of  such  books  for  old  and  young,  sending 
them  far  and  wide,  and  many  are  the  let- 
ters of  thanks  I have  received  and  wept 
over,  realizing  from  their  tone  that  the 
writers  had  little  idea  that  the  maker  of 
the  books  was  herself  a cripple.  Then 
too,  I can  sew  fairly  well  and  knit,  so  the 
variation  resulting  from  these  occupa- 
pations,  besides  reading  and  studying  for 
my  own  benefit,  has  given  me  plenty  of 
employment  and  sometimes  I almost  for- 
get that  I can’t  walk  and  dance  as  many 
of  my  age  like  to  do.” 

“Would  that  I could  make  you  a sort 
of  traveling  object  lesson  in  the  study  of 
patience  and  submission,”  I said,  fearing 
not  to  give  offense  by  this  remark,  “ for 
it  seems  to  me  that  there  are  many  per- 
sons blessed  with  abundance  of  strength 
and  health  who  could  learn  much  from 
you  and  make  their  own  lives  and  the 
lives  of  those  about  them  much  happier. 


68  Jdealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

But  am  I not  staying  too  long,  and,  if 
you  will  pardon  the  question,  may  I ask 
how  you  get  your  meals  or  join  in  the 
other  activities  of  the  household?  ” 

“ If  you  only  knew  how  glad  I am  to 
have  you,”  she  cordially  responded,  “ you 
would  not  ask  if  you  were  staying  too 
long.  But  in  reply  to  your  other  ques- 
tion,” she  continued,  “ it  is  easy  enough. 
The  lady  whom  I have  mentioned,  Mrs. 
Marvin  (and  by  the  way  I hope  you  will 
meet  her  and  learn  more  of  her)  seems 
never  to  forget  me,  and  either  comes  her- 
self or  sends  some  one  else,  if  something 
specially  interesting  is  going  on  down- 
stairs, and  at  meal  times  it  rests  with  my- 
self as  to  whether  I shall  be  taken  down 
or  eat  up  here.  Another  young  lady  of 
almost  my  own  age  has  the  next  room 
and  next  to  hers  is  Mrs.  Marvin’s  cham- 
ber. Our  rooms  open  into  a fourth 
which  serves  as  a little  individual  sitting- 
room  for  all  three  and  this  we  have  most 
cosily  arranged.  We  can  even  have  our 
own  musicales,  for  the  young  lady  plays 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  69 

the  guitar  and  I the  mandolin,  and  we 
have  many  pleasant  hours  with  ourselves 
and  any  others  who  come  to  spend  their 
leisure  with  us.  To  hear  the  laughter 
and  ripple  of  talk  that  emanates  from 
here  would  hardly  lead  one  to  think  that 
such  a poor  one  as  I was  among  the  num- 
ber.” 

As  we  were  thus  talking,  a pleasant- 
faced woman  entered  the  room  after  a 
gentle  rap,  which  must  have  been  hers 
individually,  because  Miss  Delancey 
seemed  to  know  who  it  was  immediately. 

“ I am  so  glad  you  came  just  now,  Mrs. 
Marvin,”  she  said,  “ as  I was  anxious 
that  I,  particularly,  should  have  the  pleas- 
ure of  making  you  acquainted  with  our 
new  friend  here,  which  I do  gladly.” 

Mrs.  Marvin’s  gracious  manners  and 
genuine  cordiality  stamped  her  as  the 
sort  of  “ spirit  ” one  could  never  weary 
of,  and  I marveled  not  at  Miss  Delancey’s 
affection  for  her. 

She  impressed  me  as  the  sort  of  woman 
to  whom  one  would  feel  free  to  go  for 


70  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

sympathy  and  advice  and  who  could  be 
relied  on.  Though  she  was  not  young, 
you  could  see  in  the  smile  on  her  lips,  the 
brightness  of  her  eyes,  and  the  elasticity 
of  her  movements  that  she  had  taken  life 
aright, — growing  into  womanhood  with 
all  that  maturity  of  years  and  judgment 
means,  yet  not  failing  to  remember  that 
we  can  keep  the  heart  young  and  so  carry 
with  us,  notwithstanding  advancing 
years,  the  beautiful  attributes  of  noble 
womanhood,  even  as  the  rose  in  its  full 
bloom  has  yet  all  the  sweet  fragrance  of 
the  opening  bud. 

Mrs.  Marvin  brought  us  to  a realiza- 
tion that  time  was  going  and  that  the 
next  meal  was  about  ready.  Looking  out 
I saw  that  though  there  was  hardly  any- 
sign  of  the  early  morning  shower,  save  a 
diamond  drop  here  and  there  on  the 
leaves  and  flowers,  it  was  of  course  un- 
wise to  eat  out  of  doors,  and  concluded 
that  we  should  have  dinner,  also,  in  the 
house.  As  Miss  Delancey  had  spoken  of 
not  always  going  downstairs,  it  occurred 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  71 

to  me  to  exercise  my  privilege  of  being  a 
member  of  the  family  now,  and  suggest 
that  we  three  dine  together.  I therefore 
said, 

“ If  it  would  be  agreeable  to  both  of 
you,  it  would  be  a pleasure  to  me  to  have 
our  meal  up  here  and  I shall  be  only  too 
glad  to  get  it  for  us  if  you  will  direct  me 
how  and  where  to  go.  I want  to  learn 
everything,  you  know,”  I concluded  with 
a little  laugh. 

“ That  would  be  very  nice,”  said  Miss 
Delancey,  “ for  me  particularly,  and  we 
shall  endeavor  to  have  sunshine  within 
even  if  good  old  Sol  does  feel  like  hiding 
his  face  a little  today.” 

After  receiving  instructions  from  Mrs. 
Marvin  I set  out  to  perform  my  task.  She 
said  I need  bring  only  food,  as  she  kept 
all  the  necessary  articles  for  setting  the 
table  in  a closet  in  her  own  room.  On 
reaching  the  kitchen  I found  that  it  was 
quite  the  easiest  thing  in  the  world,  ap- 
parently, to  carry  our  repast  upstairs  or 
anywhere  else,  for  the  matter  of  that.  I 


72 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 


was  given  one  of  the  specially  arranged 
light  wheel-tables,*  with  its  various 
spaces  and  hollows  in  which  the  dishes 
sat  snugly,  without  danger  of  upsetting 
and  their  contents  being  spilled.  I took 
some  of  everything  prepared  for  the 
meal,  and  as  I worked,  could  look  into 
the  dining-room  where  the  tables  were 
being  made  ready.  Though  all  was  activ- 
ity, so  thorough  was  the  understanding 
between  each  person  that  everything 
seemed  to  go  on  as  smoothly  as  if  it  were 
at  all  times  the  duty  of  one  individual  to 
do  a certain  part  and  nothing  more.  I 
had  almost  forgotten  that  my  two  guests 
w^ere  perhaps  patiently  waiting  for  my 
return,  and  hastily  rolling  the  table  into 

* In  studying  the  economic  gain  from  using,  instead 
of  a dumb-waiter,  a wheel-table  or  truck  (provided  of 
course  one  has  the  use  of  an  elevator)  it  seems  to  me 
that  the  greatest  saving  is  in  the  matter  of  steps,  both 
in  carrying  and  taking  articles  to  and  from  a dumb- 
waiter. A wheel-table  can  be  rolled  from  point  to 
point  till  everything  has  been  placed  upon  it.  Food 
needing  to  be  served  hot  has  only  to  be  put  in  the 
dishes  that  are  waiting  for  it,  and  the  whole  process 
to  my  idea  gives  better  satisfaction  than  the  use  of  the 
dumb-waiter,  except  insofar  as  the  latter  will  always 
be  convenient  for  economy  of  time  under  certain  cir- 
cumstances too  obvious  to  describe. 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  73 

the  elevator  I was  taken  up  and  soon  had 
everything  before  my  friends  for  them  to 
make  further  disposition  thereof. 

I think  that  meal  was  a pleasant  one  to 
all  three  of  us.  The  table  so  invitingly 
arranged  by  Mrs.  Marvin  gave  zest  to 
our  appetites,  and  the  quiet  humor  in 
many  of  her  remarks  together  with  Miss 
Delancey’s  sparkling  conversation,  made 
the  time  speed  by  rapidly.  I was  curious 
to  find  out  the  former’s  thoughts  on 
women’s  dressing  and  to  how  great  a de- 
gree the  idea  of  simplicity  was  carried 
out  in  this  establishment. 

“ Well,”  said  Mrs.  Marvin  in  answer 
to  my  spoken  question,  “ having  spent 
some  years  in  a hospital,  naturally  my 
ideas  incline  strongly  to  the  greatest  sim- 
plicity in  dress  for  various  reasons, 
among  the  first  of  which  is  freedom  of 
movement,  that  all  the  organs  and  every 
part  of  the  body  may  be  able  to  perform 
without  effort  those  functions  for  which 
they  were  intended.” 


74  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

I looked  at  her  and  frankly  said,  “ If 
such  is  your  belief  and  you  carry  it  out, 
you  look  neither  like  a dress  reformist, 
nor  yet  a fashion-plate  figure.  How  is  it 
that  you  are  so  successful  in  not  attract- 
ing attention  as  being  either,  and  yet  are 
such  a fine  example  of  a blending  of 
both?” 

“Very  easily,”  replied  Mrs.  Marvin. 
“ By  careful  study  I have  discovered  that 
if  our  sex  will  demand  certain  kinds  of 
materials  and  sensible  fashions  there  is 
no  question  but  that  they  will  get  both.” 

“ First  of  all,”  she  continued,  “ I think 
you  will  concede  that  much  of  the  weak- 
ness, fretfulness,  and  constant  worrying 
of  women  comes  from  the  fact  that  they 
suffer,  through  Fashion’s  decree,  irrita- 
tion and  annoyance  by  wearing  many  use- 
less things  which  are  neither  an  addition 
to  their  looks  nor  conducive  to  sweet  tem- 
pers. When  we  have  learned  that  high 
collars  cause  headaches  and  affect  the 
eyes,  that  tight  shoes  and  gloves  prevent 
proper  circulation,  that  the  small  wasp 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  75 

waist  pushes  vital  organs  out  of  their 
proper  positions,  that  trailing  skirts 
carry  dust  and  dirt  from  place  to  place, 
even  microbes  of  disease,  and  finally, 
when  we  have  become  wiser  by  discard- 
ing all  these  things,  then  we  are  on  the 
high  road  to  better  health  and  better  dis- 
positions, which  in  turn  bring  more  con- 
tentment and  courage  to  meet  the  real 
trials  and  vexations  of  life,  and  ought 
not  this  to  result  in  more  happiness  for 
ourselves  and  those  coming  in  contact 
with  us?  ” 

“ I can  not  help  agreeing  with  you,”  I 
replied,  “ for  there  is  nothing  but  truth 
in  all  you  have  said.  But  tell  me,”  I 
laughingly  said,  “ how  large  your  store 
of  patience  is  to  hope  for  such  a complete 
reform  as  this.” 

“Well,”  she  replied,  in  the  same  light 
spirit,  “ if  we  here  in  this  household  can 
set  first  class  examples,  at  least  some 
steps  will  have  been  taken,  and  after  that 
we  can  only  live  in  hope.  Another  thing 
we  have  to  learn,  I think,  is  that  almost 


76  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

one  quarter  of  the  life  of  woman  is  spent 
in  making  garments  look  fresh  and  beau- 
tiful, only  to  be  soiled  and  wrinkled  in  a 
short  while.  As  for  myself,  had  I not 
discovered  that  such  articles  were  ob- 
tainable on  the  market,  I think  I should 
have  studied  the  manufacture  of  wearing 
materials  that  I might  produce  goods  for 
both  men  and  women  that  would  stand 
all  the  washing,  rubbing,  soap  and  water 
that  one  might  choose  to  give  them,  but 
would  require  none  of  the  time,  patience 
and  strength  to  press  into  smoothness 
which  is  placed  on  the  numerous  pieces 
of  clothing  usually  in  our  wardrobes.” 

“ Don’t  think,”  she  continued  a little 
banteringly,  “ that  I do  not  believe  in  the 
utmost  cleanliness,  or  in  that  daintiness 
which  is  peculiarly  feminine,  but  I have 
come  to  know  that  we  can  have  both,  yet 
can  save  three-fourths  and  more  of  the 
energy  that  is  spent  by  others  or  our- 
selves on  pieces  of  clothing  which, 
specially  is  stiffly  starched,  make  one  de- 
cidedly uncomfortable,  or  announce  the 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  77 

coming  of  the  wearer  by  much  rustling. 
I think,  however,  that  everything  that  is 
washable  should,  as  nearly  as  possible,  be 
made  of  material  that  will  save  the  labor 
of  hours  in  making  perfectly  smooth, 
only  to  be  crumpled  into  innumerable 
wrinkles  almost  in  a moment’s  use. 
Have  your  laces,  have  your  ribbons  full 
and  plenty,  but  have  everything  plain  and 
dainty,  easy  to  put  on  and  always  at- 
tractive by  its  freshness  and  simplicity.” 

“ Your  scheme  would  put  out  of  ex- 
istence part,  at  least,  of  a certain  means 
of  livelihood  to  a number  of  people. 
However,  since  you  give  them  plenty  to 
do  in  the  way  of  washing  I presume  they 
may  hope  not  to  starve,”  I said  jestingly. 

“ I feel  quite  sure  on  that  point,”  said 
Mrs.  Marvin.  “ Here  you  will  see  how 
easily  we  manage  it  and  how  much  com- 
fort every  one  takes,  and  yet  I think  you 
will  admit  unhesitatingly  that  we  are  all 
satisfactory  to  behold  and  some  even 
more.  I should  consider  that  quite  a few 
of  our  ladies  are  very  attractive.  With 


78  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

unanimous  consent  to  have  everything 
made  as  simple  in  style  as  possible,  labor 
along  the  line  of  laundry  work  is  consid- 
erably reduced.  Among  our  friends  here 
are  some  who  have  made  this  their  busi- 
ness in  life,  as  there  are  also  others  who 
have  perfected  themselves  in  entirely  dif- 
ferent lines,  and  with  their  knowledge  and 
skill  in  management,  constant  study  how 
to  improve  and  make  the  work  easier,  to- 
gether with  the  help  of  others,  that  part 
of  our  home  life  has  its  bright  sides  also. 
Extravagant  and  useless  waste  of  fresh 
linen  is  avoided  as  much  as  possible. 
Therefore  it  is  not  uncommon  to  find 
Mrs.  Mann,  who  has  direct  supervision 
of  the  laundry,  ready  to  join  any  of  us 
in  our  hours  of  discussion  or  practice  of 
some  new  music.  She  has  a most  de- 
lightful alto  voice  which  is  enjoyed  not 
only  by  those  here,  but  by  our  many 
friends  who  chance  to  come  in  or  are  in- 
vited to  anything  special  going  on.” 

“ Well,”  said  I,  “ you  certainly  have 
the  happy  faculty  of  making  every  side 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  79 

of  life  interesting,  and  what  a satisfac- 
tion it  must  be.” 

We  had  long  since  finished  eating  and 
had  been  so  engrossed  in  conversation 
that  I came  very  near  neglecting  my  new 
duties,  and  laughingly  said  I should  re- 
ceive a “ black  ” mark  for  interrupting 
their  clocklike  precision.  I quickly  gath- 
ered those  dishes  together  which  were  to 
be  transported  to  the  kitchen  and  then 
assisted  in  putting  the  room  in  order. 
Miss  Delancey  looked  as  if  she  had  en- 
joyed the  hour  and  commenced  crochet- 
ing on  the  beautiful  soft  shawl  she  was 
making  for  one  of  the  elder  ladies,  and 
then  Mrs.  Marvin  went  to  her  own  cham- 
ber. 

Not  long  after  this  quiet  reigned 
supreme  and  I concluded  that  the  restful 
hour,  so  much  appreciated  by  all,  had 
come  and  almost  wished  I could  peep 
about  to  see  the  individual  inclination  of 
each  one.  I was  a little  curious  to  know 
how  many  there  were  who  took  the  time 
for  sleep.  This,  however,  was  out  of  the 


80  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

question,  so  I contented  myself  by  seek- 
ing a book  and  a corner  in  the  library, 
there  to  think  and  read. 

Much  to  my  surpise,  on  looking  at  my 
watch  later,  I discovered  that  I too  must 
have  succumbed  to  the  soothing  influence 
about  the  home,  for  it  was  quite  an  hour 
and  a half  since  I had  sought  my  quiet 
nook.  Through  the  open  window  near 
by  came  the  sweet  perfume  of  the  flowers 
which  lured  me  out  to  enjoy  the  fragrant 
air  before  night  again  cast  its  shadows 
around  us.  Having  been  given  permis- 
sion to  investigate  everything,  I felt  free 
to  wander  where  I would  and  so  started 
for  the  principal  gardens.  They  covered 
quite  a vast  territory  and  besides  flowers 
of  all  kinds,  whose  beauty  and  luxury 
were  a joy  to  behold,  I felt  quite  a strong 
admiration  for  the  various  vegetables 
which  thrived  and  grew  so  well  under  the 
care  and  watchful  eye  of  Mr.  White- 
hurst. 

It  was  growing  late,  however,  so  it  was 
hardly  wise  to  go  very  far,  and  then  it 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  81 

occurred  to  me  that  I should  find  more 
of  the  household  busy  out  here  in  the 
morning  than  at  twilight,  so  concluding  to 
make  a visit  some  other  time  I sauntered 
toward  the  house.  Supper  had  been  pre- 
pared and,  as  on  the  evening  before,  we 
again  had  the  pleasure  of  eating  out  of 
doors. 

“ Well,”  said  a gentle  voice  behind  me, 
which  I recognized  as  Mrs.  Chester’s, 
“ where  have  you  been  and  how  have  you 
enjoyed  yourself  today?  ” 

“ Very  delightfully,  Mrs.  Chester,”  I 
replied.  “ Every  hour  has  been  so  full 
that  they  have  seemed  to  fly  by  and  I 
have  been  very  happy.” 

“ It  is  Saturday,”  Mrs.  Chester  said  as 
we  seated  ourselves  at  one  of  the  tables, 
“ and  I am  glad  that  you  chance  to  be 
here.  We  have  very  pleasant  times  on 
Saturday  evenings  and  I hope  you  will 
enjoy  this  one.  Tonight  I believe  there 
is  an  unusual  list  of  attractions,  if  I may 
put  it  that  way.  You  seem  so  keenly  in- 
terested in  electricity  that  perhaps  you 


82  Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 

will  enjoy  the  meeting  of  the  ‘ Magnets,’ 
otherwise  known  as  one  branch  of  the 
club  studying  electricity.  The  other  has 
taken  the  name  ‘ Electrodes.’  Of  course 
as  we  have  such  a large  amount  of  ma- 
chinery here  it  is  the  one  portion  of  our 
work  that  requires  constant  supervision. 
Consequently,  there  are  groups  on  and 
off,  and  for  safety  and  the  best  possible 
management  it  was  necessary  in  this  par- 
ticular branch  to  hire  an  expert  outright. 
But  he,  too,  has  fallen  into  the  spirit 
which  reigns  and  has  an  intelligent  corps 
of  able  assistants  who  share  with  pleas- 
ure the  responsibility,  as  well  as  the 
diversion  which  comes  in  their  hours  of 
leisure.  It  goes  without  saying  that  this 
part  of  our  work  runs  very  smoothly. 
But  to  return  to  the  club.  It  is  in  two 
sections  as  I have  said,  which  meet  on 
alternate  weeks.  Both  have  interesting 
meetings  and  there  is  a pleasant  rivalry 
between  them.  They  often  manage  so 
that  members  of  each  can  attend  the 
meeting  of  the  other  section  and  we  all 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream  83 

follow  their  studies  and  progress  with 
much  interest.” 

“ Though  decidedly  uninformed  on 
this  subject,”  said  I,  “ I am  yet  deeply 
interested  in  it  and  shall  without  doubt 
enjoy  spending  some  time  with  them. 
But  tell  me,  how  do  you  all  know  what  is 
going  on?  ” 

“ Very  easily,”  she  replied.  “ There  is 
placed  on  the  bulletin  boards  for  the  ben- 
efit of  all  of  us,  programs  of  the  various 
club  meetings  with  their  dates.  If  there 
is  an  agreement  between  the  musical 
people  to  have  something  in  that  line,  a 
statement  is  posted  of  that.  Or,  if  a 
purely  social  hour  is  arranged  for  dan- 
cing or  games,  notice  of  that  is  given  so 
that  each  person  has  a chance  to  follow 
his  or  her  own  taste.” 

“A  dance  is  arranged  for  tonight,”  she 
continued,  “ and  if  you  like  that  sort  of 
pleasure  you  can  possibly  divide  up  your 
time  so  as  to  share  in  that  also.” 

“ I am  quite  feminine,”  I answered,  as 
we  arose  from  the  table,  “ and  enjoy  as 


84 


Idealia,  a Utopia  Dream 


much  as  the  very  youngest  the  witchery 
of  rhythmic  music,  a smooth  floor,  and  a 
partner  whose  perfect  step  makes  the 
whole  a most  exquisite  delight.” 

THE  END 


Note. — The  author  of  this  splendid  piece  of  literary 
work  calls  to  the  attention  of  its  readers  the  hope  that 
here  and  there  a thought  may  be  culled  which  will 
serve  as  a working  basis  for  one  or  another  of  its 
readers.  In  this  case  I feel  that  the  careful  reader  will 
be  benefited  and  this  little  book  may  go  forth  and  be 
of  use  to  the  world. 

Yours  very  truly, 

Jno.  W.  Thompson. 


MRS.  M.  C;'WlLLiA/DJS 

T»n  Broeck  Place 


Aliwny,  N.  V. 


miiA&is " ■ 

18  Ten  Broeck  Place.  ' 
AilJany,  y^ 


